Generation STEM aims to build a strong community of citizens who live, learn, work and play locally. Through the STEM Community Partnerships Program (STEM CPP), your school can play a vital role in making this happen.
Benefits of joining the STEM CPP
The STEM Community Partnerships Program invites Year 7 to 10 students to participate in STEM inquiry-based projects to address challenges faced by the local community. The program connects teachers and students with STEM businesses, showcasing the relevance of STEM in everyday life and increasing student engagement in related subjects. Through participation in the STEM CPP, students benefit from:
- Exposure to real-world applications of STEM
- Development of problem-solving, communication and teamwork skills
- Heightened awareness of local STEM career pathways
- Higher levels of youth engagement in solving community challenges
- Higher levels of youth engagement in solving community challenges
- Positive STEM-based activities for students, which may increase transferable skills and encourage interest in continuing STEM subjects and careers
- Enhanced connections between local schools, industry and Council
The program also has a wide variety of benefits for teachers:
- A professional learning day provides teachers with the skills and confidence needed to support students in open inquiry-based projects
- Resources provided to support lesson planning and the delivery of the Australian curriculum
- Increased staff skills and knowledge through exposure to contemporary STEM practices
- Build meaningful connections with local STEM industry professionals through mentorships and industry engagement activities
Your commitment
To take part, your school will need to commit one teacher from any STEM subject area for the professional learning day, and at least one class to work on STEM-based inquiry projects.
The projects are flexible and can scale from 15-100 hours based on timetable constraints and student ability. You will also need to allocate time for industry site visits, and to prepare for and attend the end-of-year student showcase.
How we support you
CSIRO will offer your school a high level of assistance and support throughout the program. We organise an annual professional learning day (including relief cover) and ongoing support to develop the skills and confidence needed to deliver and support students in the open inquiry-based projects. We also partner teachers with local STEM mentors and coordinate visits to local businesses and careers expos, including transport.
Best of all, there's no cost for schools to be part of the STEM Community Partnerships Program.
Find out more
Interested? Fill in our contact form and we'll be in touch with further information on how you can join the program.